
Seasonal Affective Disorder commonly call SAD is a type of depression that comes and goes as the seasons change. Most people report experiencing severe symptoms of SAD in the winter and less in the summer, although this is not always the case.
The cause of SAD is not known, but it is thought that it is linked to shorter days in the autumn and winter and so less exposure to sunlight. It is believed that a lack of sunlight may impact a part of the brain from working properly, meaning an increase in the production of hormones that cause sleep and a lowering of the production of a hormone called serotonin. Serotonin affects mood, and low levels of serotonin are linked to depression. It is also thought that the lower light levels in the winter can lead to disruption of the body’s internal clock, which can cause SAD symptoms.
Symptoms of SAD – The NHS provides an overview of Symptoms of SAD
- Low mood
- Loss of interest in everyday life
- Irritability
- Feeling Despair guilt and worthlessness
- Feeling lethargic
- Sleeping longer
- Wanting carbohydrates
How can you treat SAD
- Counselling – talking through how you feel with a professional and putting into practice some strategies together can be very helpful. If you would like to talk to Paul about how you are feeling and explore ways that you can address your Seasonal Affective Disorder then please contact Paul Now.
- Lifestyle – The most obvious thing that you can do is go outside more. Go for walks, exercise spend time in nature. Please read some of our other blogs for ideas on how to implement this.
- Light therapy – You can purchase a special lamp that can replace the lost sunlight.
- Antidepressants – taking antidepressants to level your serotonin levels might also be helpful, and if you want to explore this make an appointment with your GP to discuss it further.
Online Articles
- Help Guide – Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
- The Bridge – Seasonal Affective Disorder
- BUPA – Seasonal Affective Disorder
- Royal Society of Psychiatrists -Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
If you would like more formal help and would like to make an appointment with Paul, please call Paul on 07843 813 537 or fill in the form on the Contact Page, if he doesn’t answer he is probably in a session, please leave him a message and he will call you back as soon as he can.